Save the Western Maryland Scenic group faces deadline

[Anonymous]

Can you imagine Helmstetter's Curve devoid of raiils? Will you quietly let the Western Maryland Scenic's wonderful upgrade battle to Frostburg, Maryland be cut in half or abandoned?

This may be the final year of full operation for the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR). The June, 2005 column in Trains (p. 16) about constructing the hiking trail along the WMSR between Frostburg and Cumberland, MD describes the dilemma. I urge your support in helping find a middle ground with the WMSR and trail proponents. A loss of the WMSR would be an irreversible blow to thousands who visit Cumberland to ride and photograph the operation.

The WMSR offers a unique slice of railroading history. It is one of the last hard working, eastern mountain steam railroading experiences in the nation. See the cover of Trains "2005 Guide to Recreational Railroading" in print and on line for a shot of WMSR's 734 to get an idea.

As concerned fans, please step forward and help insure the future of this operation, then encourage your friends and family to do the same.

Please see:

http://www.wmsr.com

to learn more about the Western Maryland Scenic RR,

http://www.whistlestopcafe.biz/id27.htm

for more background on the issue and a list of important contacts. Then see

www.petitiononline.com/rr2fburg (due July 1, 2005)

and take a moment to write your support for the Western Maryland Scenic Railway before the final fires are dropped. Be sure to say what part of the country you write from.

Thanks